Do You Really Love Jesus?

Tell me, from the depths of your soul, do you truly love Jesus? Please don’t be offended, Peter was asked same question three times!

Jesus Himself declared, “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love.“ John 15:9. He is basically saying, as the Father loves Me, I love you, and as I love you, love one another.

Jesus said to us “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.“ John 13:34-35

Love isn’t just a sentiment; it’s an action, a feeling, and a practice that we must demonstrate towards one another. When Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” (John 21:15–17), Peter answered each time that he did. And each time, Jesus responded not with a simple affirmation but with a command to act: “Feed my lambs.” ; “Take care of my sheep.”; and “Feed my sheep.” This wasn’t just about tending literal sheep — it was a call to sacrificially love and care for others, especially the believers, as a shepherd does for his flock. Jesus was teaching Peter that loving Him meant loving His people — not just emotionally, but through action, responsibility, and sacrifice.

The Bible challenges us, how can you claim to love God when you can’t even extend love to those you interact with in this earthly life? (1 John 4:20)

If you’re spiritualising love; you are complicating what Jesus made simple and practical. You speak of loving those in Heaven, yet struggle to love your spouse, friend, or neighbour here on Earth.

Imagine if Jesus had merely spoken of His love for the Father without tangible action; it would have been meaningless for you and me. But He showed His love by sacrificing Himself on the cross for our redemption.

That’s love—undeniable, sacrificial, and tangible. Jesus instructs us plainly: “As I have loved you, love one another.“John 13:34. Your love for Jesus is demonstrated in your love for those around you. Until you love them with your whole heart, you cannot truly claim to love Jesus. Your love for your spouse, neighbour, friend, and others is the measure of your love for Him.

Related topics available:

• Falling in Love with Jesus
• Owning Love